Jose Mourinho hints at Chelsea return by confirming plans for Premier League comeback

Moving on: Jose Mourinho says he will return to the Premier League (Picture: PA)

Jose Mourinho has fuelled speculation of a return to Chelsea by admitting his ‘next step’ after leaving Real Madrid will be a move back to the Premier League.

Mourinho, whose future has been subject of widespread speculation, is expected to leave Madrid in the summer having clashed with several senior players including captain Iker Casillas.

And speaking ahead of Madrid’s crunch Champions League last 16 tie with Manchester United, the self-proclaimed ‘Special One’ is doing little to dispel talk that he is set to return to Chelsea.

‘Definitely,’ said Mourinho when asked if he will return to England for his next role.

‘We will evaluate everything at the end of the season’

Blues return? Chelsea fans have made it clear they want Mourinho back (Picture: AFP)

Mourinho’s evaluation will come at the same time as Chelsea decide whether to remove interim coach Rafa Benitez, who is currently on the ropes at Stamford Bridge following several poor results in January.

It is understood Mourinho would be willing to leave Madrid and replace Benitez at Chelsea, but owner Roman Abramovich is yet to sanction the move.

Mourinho is also likely to have offers from Manchester City and Paris St-Germain, both of whom are said to be unhappy with their managers, and would be able to offer a remarkable financial package to tempt the 50-year-old.

The Portuguese coach is a long-term admirer of the Premier League, and reiterated his desire to return at a Football Association event three weeks ago, describing the English game as ‘beautiful’.